Like any mom, I know I may be a little biased. But this isn't just my story to tell. It's one that has been told in school hallways, on football fields, in wrestling rooms, and now on stages and platforms far beyond our county lines.

This is a hometown story.

Understanding the value of close cooperation when it comes to fighting crime, the three police departments in Forest City, Spindale, and Rutherfordton came together and formed the Tri-City Violent Crime Task Force in February, 2024. Two years later, Forest City Police Chief Chris Leroy, Spindale Police Chief Chad Nazelrod, and Rutherfordton Police Chief Clint Ingle say the Task Force is a resounding success.

Congratulations to members of the Chase High School Junior Chef team who were announced as the winners of the North Carolina Junior Chef Competition last week!

The team of Keira Macopson, Chadea Byrd, Lexi Jack, and Quan Murray, under the leadership of Mrs. Taylor Wilson, placed first in the state in the school's first year participating in the event.

The team next competes at the regional level in Alabama.

Don Cason loves Rutherford County, and is now heading two organizations that are working to improve the lives of the people who live here. He has served as director of the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) for the past ten years. And starting this month, (February 2026), he is also leading Rutherford County Economic Development (RCED). The position became available upon the retirement of Birgit Dilgert.